The majority of MPs voted not to relax the smoking ban and allow smoking in pubs and private members clubs where no food is being served.

MPs refused David Nuttall, Conservative MP for Bury North, permission to bring in a private members bill to exempt pubs and private clubs from the smoking ban.

The text of the motion the MPs rejected was:

That leave be given to bring in a Bill to exempt public houses and private members' clubs from the requirements of part 1 of the Health Act 2006 relating to smoke-free premises; and for connected purposes.

Mr Nuttall's speech[1] explains his rationale for seeking to bring in such a bill.

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